Minnesota DUI Laws

The state of Minnesota is serious about prosecuting drunk driving offenders. The penalties increase dramatically for multiple offenders. If you are caught and convicted of DUI in the state of Minnesota, you could spend anywhere from 90 days up to a year or more in jail, you will have to pay fines ranging from $1,000 up to $14,000.

Under Minnesota implied consent law, by driving on any Minnesota road, all drivers automatically consent to a chemical test if an officer of the law suspects that you are driving under the influence. If you refuse, your license will be suspended for 1 year.

What is the blood alcohol content level (BAC) limit in the state of Minnesota?

In the state of Minnesota, it is a crime to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Sentence enhancements exist for cases involving a BAC of 0.15% or higher. The minimum BAC limit for commercial vehicle drivers is 0.04% and for individuals under 21 years of age, the minimum BAC is 0.02%.

In the state of Minnesota what is the administrative license suspension period for a first offense?

In the state of Minnesota, if you get arrested for DUI, the administrative license suspension time for a first offense is 90 days. Under administrative license suspension, the drivers’ license will be taken before conviction when he either fails or refuses to be tested for alcohol or drugs. During the 7-day revocation period, the driver may obtain a limited license after 15 days.

In the state of Minnesota, what are the penalties for a first DUI offense? Second offense?

First DUI offenses in the state of Minnesota will result in an automatic 3-month license suspension, fines up to $1,000, and up to 3 months in jail. If you are convicted of DUI a second time within 10 years of the first conviction, you will lose your license for a minimum of 6 months, you could face up to 12 months in jail, and up to $3,000 in fines. Third DUI offenses in the state of Minnesota will result in mandatory alcohol or drug treatment, 1 year in jail, license suspension for a minimum of 12 months and up to $3,000 in fines. You will also lose your vehicle and license plates. If your license is suspended, whether it’s your first DUI conviction or your third, you will have to pay a license reinstatement fee of $680, complete a chemical assessment, take (and pass) a DUI knowledge test, and complete the driver’s license application process as if you were completing it for the first time.